Art of the matter

Enfield Art Circle secretary Bill Simpson invites local residents to get involved ahead of the group’s annual exhibition this summer

Painting of Enfield Town in the 1950s, by Bill Simpson

Nowadays we are often looking for stress relief, like walking in the park, meeting good friends, maybe listening to music, vigorous exercise, or even bungee jumping!

For some people, however, being creative is what helps them feel at ease.

Art in the broadest sense is very accessible, as anyone can practice it and discover an exciting thing to be involved in. But so often art is presented in the grandest way by famous galleries or on television and, of course, there have been many great artists and some wonderful works to be admired.

But art remains accessible because basically anyone can use a pen or pencil and paper, perhaps a box of good quality paints and some water – and away you go!

Create whatever interests you, never worry about the results, as everyone has to start at the beginning. Some people are better at it than others, but that is not what matters. What matters is giving oneself the opportunity to say or draw something very personal.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon, a couple of hours expressing some colour or sketching, at the same time listening to some favourite music, followed with a tea break and a slice of cake as you enjoy a study of what has been achieved!

You may ponder where you have gone wrong and how you will do it differently next time but, very often one is surprised to discover the end result is better than expected, and begin to realise it is worth taking things further, possibly with a friend or partner.

Enfield Art Circle is all about this process. We are a friendly group with variable abilities, having demonstrations and workshops once a month, discussing problems and finding solutions.

Each year we have an annual exhibition at Capel Manor Gardens, in August, and two one-day table top exhibitions in spring and autumn. So if you are interested, please join us!

For information about Enfield Art Circle and to get involved:
Visit enfieldartcircle.org

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